Mexico

Summary

This is a country that truly has it all- including world-famous cuisine, an impossibly rich culture and a jaw-dropping array of unparalleled natural wonders. Encircled by more than 6,000 miles of exquisite coastline, Mexico is a country whose landscapes include cactus-studded desert, snow-dusted mountains and lush tropical rainforest. Interspersed throughout Mexico’s many geographical regions is the evidence of its human past, brought to life by the ancient ruins of the Mayan people, and the nostalgic grandeur of the colonial towns left behind by the Spanish. Above all, Mexico’s charm stems from its ability to be all things to all people. Those in search of culture will find it in the art galleries and museums of Mexico City, or in the mariachi and tequila bars of Jalisco state. For the adventure-seekers, there’s hiking, scuba diving, and sailing; while those in search of a little luxury will find it aplenty in the five star resorts of Cancun, Tulum and Acapulco. 

Experiences

• Go sailing, sport-fishing and whale watching from Los Cabos in Baja California
• Travel by train through the breathtaking vistas of the Copper Canyon
• Visit the spectacular Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza
• Indulge in a spot of pampering at the luxury beach resorts of Cancun and Tulum
• Explore Mexico City’s many museums, art galleries, restaurants and performing arts venues
• Discover the pristine reefs of Cozumel island on snorkel or on scuba

Seasons

Generally speaking, Mexico has two main seasons- a rainy season, which lasts from May to mid-October; and a dry season, which lasts from mid-October to April. Weather can differ dramatically from one region to the next at any given time, and is dictated primarily by altitude and proximity to the sea.

Northern Mexico - In the arid interior of northern Mexico, temperatures are hot in summer and cold in winter. Snow is not unheard of between November and January.

Central & Southern Mexico - The inland sections of central and southern Mexico enjoy a temperate climate, with warm days and cool nights. These regions are coldest in December and January, and warmest in April and May.

Pacific Coast - The Pacific coast enjoys warm to hot weather all year round, but can be adversely affected during hurricane season. 

Gulf Coast - Perennially hot and humid, the Gulf Coast sees more rain than other areas of the country during the May-October wet season.

Yucatan Peninsula - Also at risk during hurricane season, the Yucatan is warm along the coast and hotter still inland. Rainfall is generally restricted to the region’s wet season, which lasts from June to September.

Best time to go

The best time to travel is from November to April. For those wanting to visit the Yucatan or the Pacific coast, it is best to avoid the June-October hurricane season.